By Oliver McManus: CONNOR VIAN has boxing in his blood – he admits to that – and he’s an absolute gentleman to boot. Eight and 0 as a professional the former Army boxer and current Parachute Regiment soldier has been making a huge impact on the welterweight scene as of late with impressive performances across the board.
No less so than against Ricky Rose back in April when Rose came forward relentlessly but was tamed supremely by the fire-fighting nature of the Lion that is Connor Vian.
Having made quite a fuss about the young man I decided that it was only polite to speak to him in person and find out what he makes of his career thus far;
Connor, great to talk to you, you got the win over MJ Hall at the weekend, how did the fight go for you mate?
So yeah a week ago I boxed in my 8th professional contest on a shamrock promotions show in Ipswich.
Boxed MJ Hall over 6 rounds and won 60-54 which I was extremely pleased with, and was a good experience with an awkward southpaw fighter. Felt comfortable throughout and got stronger as the rounds on.
At this early stage in your career how much are you learning about yourself with each new bout?
I feel after each fight although I always take away many points to work on, that I’m improving all the time and definitely maturing into the professional ranks well.
It was your first six rounder, as well, how quickly are we looking to get you up to those 10-12 rounders?
I’m looking to box in the longer fights pretty soon, I’ve got a good engine and definitely think I get even stronger in the later rounds so the 10-12 rounders will suit me for sure!
If you don’t mind me asking then Connor, how did you first get into boxing?
I first got into boxing as a kid, it’s in my blood so it was just meant to be. My older brother Sean boxed and was a big inspiration to me growing up and I used to go to the gym and amateur shows as a kid supporting him. I had a fair few bouts as an amateur and was on the Army boxing team full team for two seasons which was quality and great foundations to set me up as a professional.
Because you were an Army champion with 50 fights for them, how much confidence did that give you going into the pro game?
Boxing on the army team I was out regular and boxing at a high level so stepping through them ropes is just like second nature to me now!
Are you getting used to having the spotlight on you, doing interviews?
It is great now as I’m progressing through my career getting interviews and people knowing who I am it gives me a great sense of pride. For those who don’t yet know who I am all I can say is watch this space, The Lions here to make a statement!
You’ve had eight fights over the course of 17 months, how many more fights will you be in this year?
So yeah I’ve had 8 fights in 17 months, love being busy, I’d box weekly if I could, love every minute of being in the ring! I’ll be out again in July, and hopefully another 2 before the end of the year.
And of all those eight clashes, which is the standout for you?
Out of the 8 bouts it’s hard to pick one in particular that stands out, I’ve had a real variety of opponents. My favorite fight was probably my 7th against a very game Ricky Rose in York Hall, he was a very talented amateur and boxed on the navy team which obviously has a massive rivalry with the Army team, and him being an Ex-marine, and me being a Parachute Regiment soldier we also have our rivalry.
I saw you at York Hall on April 14th with Ricky Rose and he really came forward at times and gave it a go, do you prefer it when your opponents take the fight to you or would you rather just an easy night’s work?
Massive respect to him, he came to fight and we defiantly had an entertaining fight, I like that style more, when someone comes to have a go, I feel I box my best then.
If we talk about titles have you got a particular timeframe in mind for when you want your first belt?
I’m in great hands with my trainer Russ Smith and manager Graham Everitt so I’ll leave that down to them to decide, but they know me and know my ability and how much I want it so I can assure you it won’t be long till I start belt collecting!
I’ve said it quite a lot but I am ridiculously excited for your future as a boxer, how excited must you be?
I’m extremely excited about my future in the ring and like I said before I’m improving every fight so the best is yet to come!